BROOKINGS, S.D. – A community gathered on a warm Monday night to pay tribute to Kyla “Kyla Jo” Mercy Red Bear, a 25-year-old Native American woman whose body was found after she disappeared earlier this month. The emotional vigil near where her body was discovered drew more than 100 people, reflecting the diverse population of Brookings, a town where South Dakota State University is located, making it one of the most diverse in the state. Her parents, Jen Red Bear and Brandon LeBeau, were present, receiving hugs and expressions of sympathy from friends and family.
Melanie His Law, a friend of Red Bear, spoke about their close friendship formed in third grade and expressed her belief that a crime had taken place, expressing, “I think she was murdered. My friend would not kill herself. She did not kill herself. She was murdered.”
The news of Red Bear’s disappearance and death was a somber reminder of the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women across the country, a topic that was touched upon as the group gathered at a convenience store before walking to the location where Red Bear’s body was found.
Law enforcement has been tight-lipped about Red Bear’s death, with few details released about the investigation. The Brookings County Sheriff’s Office and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation have urged anyone with information about the case to come forward.
Family and friends remembered Red Bear as a vibrant spirit, and community members expressed the importance of coming together to grieve and support the family during the vigil.
The community gathered on a sweltering night, where ancient songs pierced the air and a steady drumbeat was sounded. The heavy emotions were palpable as the crowd, including members from diverse backgrounds, honored the life of Kyla Mercy Red Bear.
In light of the ongoing investigation, the community continues to mourn and await further developments regarding Red Bear’s death.
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